Magic mushrooms may hold the key to alleviating long COVID symptoms, according to a recent case report detailing the surprising recovery of a 41-year-old woman.
Despite being fully vaccinated, the patient experienced debilitating symptoms including severe anxiety, insomnia, depression, cognitive issues, joint pain, headaches, and a plummeted libido for months after contracting COVID-19 in early 2022. Traditional treatments offered little relief, prompting the woman to experiment with small doses of MDMA and psilocybin mushrooms under the guidance of a therapist. Remarkably, she reported up to 80% improvement in her symptoms after just a few doses, allowing her to return to work and resume her PhD studies.
The woman’s journey began with the onset of classic COVID-19 symptoms in February 2022, despite her vaccination status. Conventional remedies proved ineffective, leading her to explore alternative therapies. Under the guidance of a therapist, she embarked on a regimen of carefully dosed MDMA and psilocybin mushrooms in May 2022, experiencing a dramatic improvement in her condition shortly thereafter.
Despite experiencing nausea and vomiting initially, her pain score dropped to zero within an hour of ingesting the mushrooms. Subsequent doses provided complete relief even during periods of symptom exacerbation, allowing her to resume her daily activities and academic pursuits.
While the biological mechanisms underlying the efficacy of psychedelics in treating long COVID remain unclear, researchers speculate that they may reduce neuroinflammation, modulate brain connectivity, and promote neural plasticity. Despite the legal restrictions surrounding psychedelics in the U.S., the woman’s remarkable recovery underscores their potential as a treatment option for conditions resistant to conventional therapies.
This case offers a glimmer of hope for individuals struggling with long COVID and underscores the need for further research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. However, it is essential for patients to consult with medical professionals before attempting self-medication with these substances. As our understanding of long COVID continues to evolve, unconventional treatments like psychedelic therapy may play an increasingly important role in improving patient outcomes.